Performance Gain From Octane Booster?


w.a.nelson

GT Owner
Mark II Lifetime
Feb 29, 2008
1,122
Asbury, NJ
What are the thoughts regarding the efficacy of Over The Counter " Octane Boosters"?

Would they offer any performance improvement in a Track Day situation?

If there is any value, what is the best brand to use?

If the thought are that it is hokey, is there any downside to using one - other than wasting $5 - 10?

Thanks.
 

BlackICE

GT Owner
Nov 2, 2005
1,416
SF Bay Area in California
Do a search on "octane MMT Torco toluene" and read more than you ever wanted to know.
 

Empty Pockets

ex-GT Owner
Mark IV Lifetime
Le Mans 2010 Supporter
Oct 18, 2006
1,362
Washington State
Bottom line from a practical standpoint: 'WASTE OF TIME & MONEY.

'Hope that helps! :biggrin
 

Triheart7

GT Owner
Mark IV Lifetime
Apr 3, 2007
2,581
Northern California
Bottom line from a practical standpoint: 'WASTE OF TIME & MONEY.

'Hope that helps! :biggrin

Such a long winded expose!:rofl
 

OzGT

GT Owner
Aug 21, 2006
290
South of Sydney, AUS
The only way you'll see a perceived 'performance boost' is if you are using a fuel that's of poorer octane level than your car is tuned to or has a knock sensor that retards timing. In which case all you are doing is bandaiding poor quality fuel. If you add booster to fuel that's already got a decent octane rating for your car, then you're just wasting money.
 

Empty Pockets

ex-GT Owner
Mark IV Lifetime
Le Mans 2010 Supporter
Oct 18, 2006
1,362
Washington State
Such a long winded expose!:rofl

Ya, well, you know how I am! :lol
 

w.a.nelson

GT Owner
Mark II Lifetime
Feb 29, 2008
1,122
Asbury, NJ
Thanks

Thanks for the input.

I might try to read up on the tech stuff later, but for now, getting Octane Booster is one less thing I have to do tomorrow.

My take-away is: good gas; good tune; GREAT car; no need!